Particle film technogy was recently developed by ARS scientists to control arthropod pests of tree fruits. One product resulting from this technology that is now commercially available is 'Surround WP'. This material generally acts as a protective barrier against insect feeding and oviposition. The Glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS) recently invaded southern California and is a serious threat to the grape industry because it vectors Pierce's disease. A series of field experiments were conducted in California to determine Surrounds potential in preventing GWSS infestations in grape. Results showed that Surround performed equally or better than conventional chemical insecticides in controlling GWSS. Bioassys determined that GWSS adults and nymphs were repelled by Surround treated plants. As a result, Surround WP prevented GWSS feeding and oviposition in grape.
Species 1: Homoptera Cicadellidae Homalodisca coagulata
Keywords: Kaolin, barrier
The ESA 2001 Annual Meeting - 2001: An Entomological Odyssey of ESA